These Trains In Japan Can Still Travel Safely During An Earthquake

Ilustrasi. (Steenium / Unsplash)

JAKARTA - As a country that relies on trains for the daily mobility of its citizens. Japan continues to develop their train technology.

Together with China and Europe, Japan is competing in presenting trains with the latest technology, fast, comfortable and safe. One of the newest trains owned by Japan is the N700S bullet train.

Launched last year, this train serves the Tokaido Shinkansen line which connects Tokyo Station and Shin-Osaka Station in Osaka. The speed is up to 360 kilometers per hour, although it is limited to a maximum of 285 kilometers per hour.

In terms of appearance, the N700S doesn't look too different from the previous N700 or N700A models. But take a closer look, the new carriage has a more angled nose, curves that are more 'plump' and a slimmer design of the headlights.

On the inside, the newly designed seats allow passengers to lean further back, offering more comfort, especially for long-haul passengers. Each seat has an individual outlet.

Illustration. (Topcools Tee / Unsplash)

The interior lighting has been designed to create a softer, more relaxed atmosphere. The overhead luggage rack will light up at each stop to remind passengers of their belongings. More reserved storage areas for extra large baggage have been added to this model as well.

Earthquake

The actual ride will be much quieter and smoother, thanks to a new active suspension system that helps absorb the train's motion. As well as a focus on improving comfort, the designers behind these new models place a strong emphasis on safety.

The train has automatic controls and an improved braking system, enabling quicker stops in the event of an emergency.

Not only that, this train is also equipped with a lithium-ion battery self-propulsion system and is the first of its kind in the world.

Illustration. (Fikri Rashid / Unsplash)

This system allows trains to travel on their own for short distances during power outages, allowing them to move to safer locations at lower speed if they are stranded in high risk areas - on bridges or in tunnels, for example - during an earthquake.

The upgraded components will take up less space under the floor of the train compared to the older model, allowing for a more flexible configuration, from four to 16 cars. It also reduces energy consumption while speeding up production times, making it a more attractive choice for international operators.

"By making the underfloor mechanism of the N700S lighter and more compact, we are setting new standards," said Deputy Head of JR Central Bullet Train Business Department Masayuki Ueno as reported by CNN.